Cyclone Arnab devastates Odisha; over 55,000 evacuated across nine districts

A very severe cyclonic storm has battered coastal regions of eastern India, forcing authorities to evacuate more than 55,000 residents across nine districts in Odisha as the system brought heavy rainfall and destructive winds to the region.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu indicated that the cyclonic system has inflicted substantial economic damage, with preliminary assessments placing losses at a minimum of ₹4,600 crore across affected areas. The estimates reflect widespread destruction to infrastructure, agricultural lands, and residential structures in the path of the storm.

Evacuation operations have been prioritized in vulnerable coastal and low-lying areas, with authorities establishing temporary shelters and relief camps to accommodate displaced residents. State administrations have positioned emergency response teams and resources across affected districts to manage rescue and relief efforts.

The cyclonic system brought dangerous wind speeds and torrential rainfall to the region, disrupting normal life and triggering concerns about further damage as the weather event moves through affected zones. Officials continued to monitor the system's trajectory and intensity while coordinating with disaster management agencies to minimize casualties and accelerate relief operations.